Salzburg Salt Mines (Salzkammergut) Tours

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Beneath the glittering lakes and snow-dusted mountains of Austria’s Lake District, the subterranean world of the Salzburg salt mines spreads out in a network of underground mines and tunnels. Used to mine “white gold” since the Bronze Age, the historic salt mines at Hallstatt and Berchtesgaden are now popular attractions. Here you’ll find fascinating insights into the region’s salt-mining heritage, as well as fun activities such as slides, train rides, and boat cruises.

The Basics

The Berchtesgaden salt mines can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Exploring the salt mines is a blast for the whole family. At Berchtesgaden, visitors can tour the mines by train, brave a 118-foot-long (36-meter-long) miners’ slide, cruise across a subterranean salt lake (the “Mirror Lake”), and marvel at the Salt Cathedral. At the Hallstatt salt mines, visitors can walk through underground tunnels, learn about the science of salt in a subterranean classroom, see a prehistoric wooden staircase (the oldest of its kind in the world!), and shop for innovative salt products in the gift shop. Journey to the mines on a half- or full-day tour from Salzburg, Austria, or Munich, Germany.

Things to Know Before You Go

The salt mines can only be visited on guided tours, and it’s best to book in advance, especially during high season in July and August.Wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes, as it can be chilly underground. Overalls and protective clothing are provided for most tours.Some parts of the salt mine tours are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with your tour operator in advance.

How to Get There

The main salt mines are located in Berchtesgaden and Hallstatt, about 16 miles (25 kilometers) and 43 miles (70 kilometers) by road from Salzburg, respectively. It’s easiest to visit as part of a guided tour, but buses also run from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden and Hallstatt, as well as other locations in the Salzkammergut region.

When to Get There

Most salt mines are open year-round, but fewer tour times are usually available in low season. July and August are the most popular months to visit; during this time it’s a good idea to book an early time slot to avoid crowds.

Combo Tours with the Salzburg Salt Mines

Salt mine excursions are often combined with a trip to Adolf Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest atop a sub-peak of Hoher Göll mountain, or a boat cruise around Lake Königssee in Germany. Alternatively, opt for a private tour to Hallstatt and discover the underground world of the Hallstatt salt mines, ride the funicular—a steep cable railway—to the Five Fingers Viewing Platform at Krippenstein, or take a boat tour of Hallstatt Lake.

See the underground world of Obersalzberg’s salt mines on this 4-hour trip from Salzburg. Led by a local guide, venture along the scenic Alpenstrasse as you wind through the Bavarian Alps. Suit up in traditional miners’ wear and descend into the salt mines dating back 450 years. Then, experience a unique raft sail along the salt lake in the mines' grottos and hear the history and lore of the underground world. After a stop at the charming village of Berchtesgaden, your tour will conclude in Salzburg.

Experience the stunning scenery of the Austrian Lake District (Salzkammergut) on this half-day private tour from Salzburg. Travel to the UNESCO-listed village of Hallstatt and learn the rich history of the area from your private guide. Marvel at the Dachstein Mountain and enjoy a train ride up to the world's oldest salt mine. You can also opt to see the Mühlbach Waterfall, the Beinhaus (Bone House) or stroll around Lake Hallstatt. Your intimate, private tour can be customized to your interests.

Soak up three top-selling tours at a discounted price on this Salzburg Super Saver through the Bavarian Mountains. Led by an expert guide, begin your morning with panoramic views of the Alps at Hitler’s historic mountain retreat, known as the Eagle’s Nest. Then spend the afternoon exploring the underground world of 450-year-old salt mines, before concluding with a trip to the charming town of Berchtesgaden.

Krampus originates from centuries of Pagan festivals and is by far the most unique Christmas celebration ever experienced. This two night trip to Berchtesgaden is the only way to truly experience this ancient tradition which is coupled with an amazing Christmas Market, Schnapps factory tour, salt mine tour, and plenty more.

Explore Halstatt and the Austrian lakes district on this full-day private tour from Salzburg. Additionally, choose to visit the 5 Fingers Viewing Platform nestled in the Alps or the world's oldest salt mine. Entrance fees and round-trip hotel transportation included. This private tour ensures personalized attention and a flexible itinerary.

It takes over 2 hours to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg by train. Save yourself time and hassle, and get the most out of your day trip by booking a tour with a private chauffeur. Your guide works with you to customize a private tour in the scenic Austrian Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Choose to cruise in a boat, ride in a cable car, walk through villages, and more.